Lymphography in childhood: six years experience with 242 cases

From January, 1969 - December, 1974, 242 children less than 15 years of age underwent lymphography at the National Cancer Institute, Milan. Successful lymphatic cannulation was accomplished in 97% (440/463) of the sites where it was attempted. No major or permanent complications were encountered, although minor untoward effects might not have been recorded. In those children undergoing biopsy of opacified lymph nodes, lymphographic-histologic correlation was 98% (45/46). Nonspecific reactive hyperplasia lymphographic patterns were encountered in 36% of all studies, confirming its high incidence in the pediatric age group. This study has shown that lymphography in childhood can be as readily performed as in the adult and that its diagnostic accuracy is acceptable. As in adults, it is useful in treatment planning, evaluating results of therapy, and detecting recurrent tumor. The frequent occurrence of nonspecific reactive hyperplasia in the pediatric lymphogram should not be mistaken for evidence of tumor, particularly lymphoma.